Should Pintle Mounting Plate be Level With Trailer

Published 03/24/2023

Question:

I am mounting a pintle to the back of a semi. The trailer is 25,000 GTW. Should I be worried that the attachment point to the truck is lower than the center line of the truck axles? I fear that on a steep downgrade with the engine brakes engaged the trailer could apply a lifting force to the rear wheels and cause the lose traction or worse it could cause a jackknife situation. What is your recommendation?

asked by: Paul

Expert Reply:

Yes, you need to be as level as possible to attach a pintle mounting plate like the B&W Pintle Hook Mounting Plate # BWPMHD14004.

My recommendation is to ensure you are level; I have added a link below to a help article which details measuring for rise and drop. While it is for standard couplers and ball mounts, the same principles will apply.

expert reply by: Kyle S